LAGOS/Nigeria: Swift intervention by emergency responders prevented what could have escalated into a major disaster in Lagos, as a fire outbreak in a two-storey building at Ojuelegba, Surulere, was brought under control without any loss of life.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), in a statement signed by its Head of Public Affairs, Olawale Afolabi, confirmed that the incident occurred at No. 2, Makinde Street and was promptly contained following a coordinated response.
According to the agency, its Cobra response team arrived at the scene to find the building engulfed in flames, with preliminary findings linking the fire to a power surge.
Afolabi said a multi-agency emergency operation was immediately activated to prevent the spread of the fire to nearby buildings, involving the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Federal Fire Service, the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps and the Nigeria Police Force.
He noted that the fire had been successfully extinguished, while dampening operations were ongoing to eliminate any risk of re-ignition.
“The State Government is pleased to report that no life was lost and no injuries were recorded,” he said, attributing the outcome to the efficiency and professionalism of the responders.
The Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, commended the collaborative efforts of all agencies involved, describing the operation as a reflection of the state’s strengthened emergency response framework.
He, however, urged residents to adopt preventive measures against fire outbreaks, particularly those linked to electrical faults.
Oke-Osanyintolu advised the public to switch off appliances when not in use, ensure proper electrical installations by certified professionals, and install safety devices such as circuit breakers.
He also encouraged residents to report emergencies promptly through the state’s toll-free lines, 767 and 112, assuring that authorities remain vigilant and ready to respond to incidents across the state.
LASEMA reiterated that the situation in Ojuelegba had been fully stabilised, with no further threat to lives or property.
